Articles and local events of interest
West Wickham Common
Some interesting statistics relating to the Commons are now available here.
The City of London, who own and maintain West Wickham Common, produce regular newsletters regarding forthcoming events. See their website for details.
If you'd like to find out more, please email city.commons@cityoflondon.gov.uk
Garden waste
It is very disappointing to see that some residents persist in dumping their garden waste on the common, particularly at the back of Harvest Bank. Please be aware that no dumping is permitted on the common, including grass clippings, leaves and any other waste. Dumping is unsightly and can radically alter the ecosystem – please help us keep West Wickham Common a great place for people and wildlife by disposing of your waste responsibly.
What's happening on the Common
Volunteer events
Air your views on our blog
Pedestrian Crossing
For update on A232 pedestrian crossing click here
What's happening on the Common
Parties and motorbikes
The rangers are aware that there have been a number of parties on the heath recently and have tried to clear up as soon as possible. There have also been scramble bikes passing through. If any behaviour on the common is disturbing you or you are at all concerned, please contact the rangers (0208 776 2343 / 01372 279 488 out of hours) or the Police Safer Neighbourhood Team (0208 649 3548).
Beetles
A beetle expert from the Natural History Museum recently conducted a survey of the common, concentrating on beetles associated with decaying wood and the ancient trees. He confirmed the great importance of the West Wickham oak pollards in supporting a range of very scarce species.
Management projects
As well as the amenity mowing of paths and grass areas, the main projects ongoing are:
- Management of the heathland regeneration area by careful strimming and mowing.
- A survey of the biggest and most important trees on the site (apart from the pollards) to identify any management works necessary to ensure their longevity.
The main projects for the winter were:
- Continuing management of ancient oaks and other veteran trees.
- Gradual clearance of some holly on site to create glades, allowing saplings to come up and hopefully encouraging wildflowers.
- Some gradual thinning of young woodland to ensure the healthy development of the best trees – both these projects will take into account the amenity and ‘buffer' value of the site and a screen will always be left between houses and the road.
You can also see the latest news about the Common on the City of London website
Volunteer Events
The West Wickham and Spring Park volunteers, affectionately known as the “WWaSPs”, are busy assisting the Rangers with a wide variety of tasks throughout the year. If you’d like to lend a hand please keep an eye on our on-site information boards for the latest news of future tasks or phone 020 8776 2343.
The West Wickham and Spring Park (WWaSP) volunteers meet by the tractor shed on Spring Park (SP) or in the car park on West Wickham Common (WWC).
See here for more about London Heathland